Exercise initiative: It's probably going to be the longest walk undertaken this summer anywhere in the world, and it is set to attract the largest number of participants.
The Kellogg's Corn Flakes Great Walk 2005 is an initiative designed to raise awareness of the need to combine healthy eating with physical activity for a healthier, balanced lifestyle. The walk takes place from April to September throughout Ireland and the UK.
Starting in Belfast on June 14th, 38-year-old Karen Churches will journey around Ireland taking in 14 counties and lead a series of 10K walks ending up in the Phoenix Park, Dublin on July 16th.
Ms Churches, who has already climbed Mount Kilimanjaro and is a seasoned fundraiser and walker, will walk about 3,200 kilometres over the 128 days of the event. While in Ireland she will walk about 768 kilometres over 24 days.
Mr Seán Power, Minister for State for Health and Children (with responsibility for Health Promotion) launched the initiative yesterday. The walk which is being supported by TV3 and UTV will travel through the following areas: Belfast; Newry; Dundalk; Drogheda; Dublin; Wicklow; Wexford; Waterford; Tipperary; Limerick; Clare; Galway; Offaly and Kildare. Members of the public can, for a small fee, register to take part in any of the 10K events along the route and raise money for an organisation or charity of their choice.
To register log on to the Great Walk website at www.great-walk.org or call freephone 1800 931 077.